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A Therapist’s Toolkit: The Therapeutic Relationship & What Makes Therapy Work

When people begin therapy, they often wonder what makes therapy work. Is it the techniques? The diagnosis? The therapist’s training? While all of those matter, research consistently points to one factor above the rest: the therapeutic relationship. What Makes Therapy Work? At its core, therapy works because of the connection between client and therapist. This […]

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How to Reconnect After an Argument: A Therapist’s Guide to Conflict Repair

Arguments are a normal part of every close relationship. Whether you’re navigating conflict with a partner, family member, or close friend, disagreements don’t automatically damage a relationship. In fact, healthy relationships aren’t defined by never arguing, they’re defined by how people reconnect after an argument or conflict. Conflict repair is the process of rebuilding trust,

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GLP-1s, Body Image, and Mental Health: The Weight of Social Judgment

The conversation around GLP-1 medications has become about much more than healthcare. Every day, social media, news headlines, and everyday conversations invite people to weigh in on who “should” take these medications, who “deserves” them, and what they say about the people who use them. Lost in these conversations is something equally important: the emotional

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Is Couples Therapy Right for Us? A Self-Assessment Tool

Relationships naturally go through seasons. Some are filled with connection and ease, while others feel marked by misunderstandings, stress, or distance. When challenges arise, many couples ask themselves the same question: “Is couples therapy right for us?” For some, the answer feels obvious. For many others, it doesn’t. You may wonder whether your problems are

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Alyse Autism Assessments

Adult Autism Evaluations in Seattle Now Available with Alyse Bradway!

If you’ve ever wondered whether autism could explain experiences you’ve had throughout your life, you’re not alone. Many adults are discovering they’re autistic later in life after years of feeling different, misunderstood, or overlooked. At our practice, we’re committed to making the diagnostic process more accessible, respectful, and affirming. We’re excited to share that Alyse

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The Amazon Spheres in Seattle

Tech Layoffs in Seattle: How to Cope with Job Loss and Uncertainty

Seattle’s tech industry has long been associated with stability, innovation, and high-paying careers. But in recent years, tech layoffs in Seattle have disrupted that sense of security across companies both large and small. If you’ve been impacted, whether directly or indirectly, you’re not alone. The Emotional Impact of Tech Layoffs Job loss in the tech

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Creating Your Relationship Vision: A Guide for Couples, Friends, and ENM Relationships

A lot of people enter relationships with good intentions but very little structure. That can lead to misunderstandings, repeated conflict, and a vague sense that something important is missing. Creating a relationship vision can help you name what you want, how you want to treat each other, and what kind of connection you are trying

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Emerson

Meet Emerson: Your Attachment-Focused Therapist in Seattle

We’re excited to welcome Jessica Emerson, LMHCA back to Steffen Counseling Services! Emerson first joined our practice as a clinical intern, and we’re thrilled to celebrate her return as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate (LMHCA). If you’re looking for an attachment-focused therapist in Seattle, Emerson is currently accepting new clients for in-person therapy in

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Best Questions to Ask During a Therapy Consultation: Guide to Help You Find the Right Therapist

Starting therapy is a meaningful step, and a consultation is an opportunity to see whether a therapist feels like the right fit. However, getting started can be the biggest hurdle—often because many people don’t know what questions to ask during a therapy consultation. At Steffen Counseling Services, we encourage new clients to use this first conversation

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Parenting and Family Dynamics: Exploring Generational Differences in Therapy

Parenting and family dynamics are shaped by more than personal preference. They are influenced by the family rules, cultural expectations, and emotional lessons that are passed down from one generation to the next. In therapy, these inherited patterns often show up in the way families communicate, set boundaries, manage conflict, and express care. Today, many

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